Renewal Story:
Cheryl
55+ Adults
Cheryl had been abused by her ex-husband, beaten by a former roommate and turned out of the home she shared with her brother when he passed away. So when she moved into an apartment of her own, she looked forward to a new start and a life of independence.
However, Cheryl found herself in a crime-ridden neighborhood with frequent break-ins and shootings. After being robbed herself, she no longer felt safe — but her options were limited. She contacted My Health My Resources of Tarrant County for advice and they referred her to Union Gospel Mission of Tarrant County. “They told me it was a good place and I’d be safe there,” she recalls.
When Cheryl came to UGM-TC, she found that the classes, staff and resources offered her a path toward a better life. She enrolled in school to improve her computer skills so she can qualify for a higher-paying job and a home in a good neighborhood. “I want to get my certification. It’s like a dream, to accomplish that and get a better place to live.”
Even more important, Cheryl reclaimed her confidence and joy. “I’m getting my power back,” she says. “It’s been a hard fight. People keep beating you down. But I feel closer to God because He’s shown me He hasn’t left me through all this.”
Since coming to UGM-TC, Cheryl has met women who are dealing with many different challenges. Initially she found some to be guarded, but she gained their trust and has made many friends among them. “I always say I want to be like Jesus. But Jesus was among outsiders, so if I want to be like Him, I have to be willing to talk to people, regardless of their circumstances,” she says.
Cheryl enjoys witnessing to and encouraging her fellow residents. She recently helped one young woman make the decision to stay in the program. “At UGM-TC, you can be open and say what’s on your mind and on your heart. But first of all, you’ve got to give God the glory. Continue praising Him through the storm.”
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